Why would a fish have lungs and breathe air? What can a live fish tell us about the evolution of tetrapods? Heather King joins us to discuss how lungfish walk, and what this strange fish can teach us about the 'water-to-land' transition.
Topics: evolution, lungfish, groks, science
You don't need to be a scientist to know that the Earth is round or that 2 + 2 = 4. So why are many scientific discoveries, like the geologic age of the Earth, discounted by so many people? On this episode, Dr. Phil Plait, Slate's "Bad Astronomy" blogger, joins us to discuss how science is presented in the media and why people sometimes believe very strange things.
Topics: Phil Plait, Science, Media, Rubio, Astronomy, Groks, Politics
While we may be born with some innate food preferences, most of our eating habits are learned and vary dramatically across cultures. On this episode, Bee Wilson discusses how we learn to eat and whether we can change our approach to food.
Topics: food, diet, obesity, health, Bee Wilson, groks, science
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
Over the past 40 years, we’ve learned a great deal about the surface of Mars, the moons of Saturn, and the origins of our universe. On today’s show, Chris Impey, an astronomer from the University of Arizona and coauthor of Dreams of Other Worlds, joins us to discuss how unmanned space exploration has shaped our understanding of distant worlds.
Topics: space, robots, groks, science, astronomy, NASA, Chris Impey, Holly Henry, Voyager, Mars, Hubble
The wide array of eye designs in the animal kingdom reflects the critical role that sight plays in the well-being of an animal. Today, ophthamologist Dr. Ivan Schwab tells us the story of eye evolution, beginning with the first photoreceptive compounds and taking us through some of the most interesting and strange eyes known. We'll also learn a bit about our own eyes, how they work, and how we compare to other animals.
Topics: Groks, Groks Science Show, eye, evolution, Ivan Schwab
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With all the recent excitement about sharks – including shark week and the film “Sharknado” – you might think that sharks are the strangest animals in the ocean. If you’re under this impression, I’d like to introduce you to the cephalopods – creatures like the octopus and squid. Why are they strange? Well, to start with octopuses have three hearts, they taste with their arms, they have a donut-shaped brain, and can change color instantly. In fact, they have so many peculiarities...
Topics: biology, groks, octopus, evolution, development
In this episode, Ben Winger, PhD Candidate at the University of Chicago, discusses his research on how new species of birds evolve and his work in the Peruvian cloud forests.
Topics: Groks, Science, Bird, Evolution, Science, Evolution, Birds
Although diet and exercise are important factors in heart disease, genetics may play a bigger role. On this program, Dr. Jay N. Cohn discussed early detection of cardiovascular disease.
Topics: science, medicine, heart, cardiovascular, groks
The setpoint theory suggests that our bodies have a natural range of weight that is determined. This setpoint can be changed to improve health and longevity. On this episode, Jonathan Bailor discussed the setpoint diet.
Topics: setpoint, diet, nutrition, fitness, groks
Source: Groks Science Radio Show and Podcast
Although sex is an integral part of human existence, there is still much that most of us are in the dark about. On this program, Dr. Robert Martin discussed the evolution of sexual behaviors in humans.
Topics: science, sex, sexuality, evolution, biology, groks
Source: Groks Science Radio Show and Podcast
Industrial processes produce carbon dioxide emissions at a staggering rate. Recycling carbon dioxide into fuel sources may help recapture some of these emissions into a useful form. On this program, Byron Elton discussed carbon recycling technology.
Topics: science, environment, carbon recycling, carbon dioxide, greenhouse gas, groks
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
The remarkable operations of the human body are often unnoticed until something goes awry. These unintended consequences can be avoided by simply paying attention to our bodies. On this program, Dr. Jeffrey Brantley discussed achieving a mindful body.
Topics: science, mindfulness, psychology, exercise, body, relaxation, health, groks
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
Although competition may seem to drive the natural world, cooperation may be the bigger motivating force. On this program, Martin Nowak discussed supercooperators.
Topics: science, biology, evolution, cooperation, game theory, sociology, groks
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
The changes to the environment caused by global warming have complex effects on the ecosystems of the earth. On this program, Richard Pearson discussed the effects of climate change on biodiversity.
Topics: science, environment, biodiversity, extinction, groks
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
Information has never been more facile and easy to obtain, such that managing it can be almost overhwelming. But, how is information defined scientifically? And, what does the history of information tell us about its future?
Topics: science, technology, information theory, computers, communication, groks
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
What is the basis for the common numerical counting systems found in mathematics? And, how do these vary across the globe? On this program, Alex Bellos discussed number theory.
Topics: science, math, euclid, numbers, groks
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
MRSA, otherwise known as Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, may be the greatest public health threat since AIDS. What is being done to combat this deadly disease? On this program, Maryn McKenna discussed the threat of this Superbug.
Topics: science, MRSA, epidemiology, biology, public health, groks
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a commonly diagnosed in young children. However, alternatives exist to the common treatments. On this program, Nancy O'Dell and Patricia Cook discussed stopping ADHD.
Topics: science, ADD, ADHD, groks
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
The rapid developments in science and technology are made easier to follow by excellent science writing. On this program, Jesse Cohen discussed the Best American Science Writing for 2009.
Topics: science, technology, journalism, best of 2009, science writing, groks
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
The story of Jackie Cochran and Jerrie Cobb is a fascinating tale of two accomplished pilots fighting for the future of women in space. On this episode, Amy Shira Teitel discussed her book, Fighting for Space.
Topics: science, space, women, groks
Source: Groks Science Radio Show and Podcast
Hormones control just about everything in our bodies, but the scientific study of hormones has a long and sordid history. On this episode, Dr. Randi Hutter Epstein discussed the history of hormones.
Topics: science, endocrinology, hormones, groks
Source: Groks Science Radio Show and Podcast
Uncovering the mysteries of the brain is an ongoing endeavor. So, what do we really know about the brain? On this episode, Dr. David Linden discussed these issues in the new book, Think Tank.
Topics: science, neuroscience, groks
Source: Groks Science Show and Podcast
Humans nearly vanished due to a major explosion from the Toba Volcano. On this episode, Dr. Donald Prothero discusses when humans nearly vanished.
Topics: science, anthropology, toba, groks
Source: Groks Science Radio Show and Podcast
Black holes capture everything that passes its event horizon, even light. So, how can a black hole be seen? On this episode, Seth Fletcher discussed the event horizon telescope.
Topics: groks, astronomy, black hole, event horizon telescope, groks
Source: Groks Science Radio Show and Podcast
What is the inner life of a fish? Is it possible to know what a fish knows? On this episode, Dr. Jonathan Balcombe discussed what a fish knows.
Topics: science, ethology, groks
Source: Groks Science Radio Show and Podcast
Some of us see self-driving cars as futuristic, not likely to become popular in our lifetime. But several companies are getting very close to launching their first lines of unmanned vehicles and many people want them. Today Corey Clothier of Local Motors joins us to talk about the state of autonomous vehicles, when they’ll be available, and how they could change the way we commute and travel.
Topics: driverless, autonomous, cars, automotive, unmanned, vehicles, corey clothier, science, technology,...
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
How much of the aging process is inevitable and how much can we control? On this episode, Dr. Michael Roizen discussed controlling the aging process.
Topics: science, technology, groks, aging
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
Throughout history, physicians have made use of the placebo effect. Now, scientists are trying to understand how and why placebos work. Today Professor John Kelley, the Deputy Director of the Program in Placebo Studies & the Therapeutic Encounter at Harvard Medical School discusses the mechanisms of the placebo effect and its role in medicine.
Topics: groks, science, medicine, placebos, John Kelley, placebo effect, psychology
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
The interaction between humans and animals has varied dramatically throughout human history. Animals have been seen as spiritual figures, servants, food, and pampered pets. On this episode, Brian Fagan discusses how animals have shaped our history and how our conception of them has changed over time.
Topics: animals, history, brian fagan, groks science show
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
On today’s show, author and journalist Rachel Swaby joins us to discuss a few of the substantial contributions that women have made to science.
Topics: Rachel Swaby, women, women in science, groks science show, science
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
Richard Feynman is known as one of the most imaginative and beloved physicists in history, reaching a public popularity that is uncommon for his field. Today we speak with his daughter Michelle Feynman about the collection of her father’s quotes that she recently published as well as stories and memories she has of him.
Topics: Richard Feynman, Michelle Feynman, physics, biography, groks science show
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
The connection between scent and memory is powerful and can be startling. Many people have been caught off-guard by strong memories brought about simply by catching an everyday scent. Today we’re speaking with Dr. Virginia Barry, Chicago psychoanalyst and author of the unique book Scratch and Sniff Proust. She’ll help us understand the neuroscience behind the strong connection between memory and scent and why the brain is wired this way.
Topics: scent, senses, smell, memory, neuroscience, psychiatry, Groks Science Show, Virginia Barry
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
Exoplanets are now a common feature of astronomical discoveries, but what do some of these exoplanets look like? On this episode, Michael Carroll discussed his new book, Envisioning Exoplanets.
Topics: science, astronomy, exoplanets, groks
Source: Groks Science Radio Show and Podcast
The world is full of chaotic and unexpected events. So, what is the best method for dealing with a crisis? On this episode, Dr. Jim Taylor discussed his new book, How to Survive and Thrive When Bad Things Happen.
Topics: science, crisis, psychology, mindset, groks
Source: Groks Science Radio Show and Podcast
Mental health issues often hides in the darkness, but what can we be done to increase understanding and awareness of mental health? On this episode, Terri Cheney discussed her book, Modern Madness: An Owner's Manual.
Topics: science, mental health, biology, psychology, groks
Source: Groks Science Radio Show and Podcast
The remarkable behavior of birds is sometimes confounding when viewed from an anthropomorphic lens. What is the bird way? On this episode, Jennifer Ackerman discussed her new book, The Bird Way.
Topics: science, birds, biology, behavior, groks
Source: Groks Science Radio Show and Podcast
Eating disorders are characterized by more than just the physiological processes in the body, but also importantly the mental health process involved. On this episode, Robyn Cruze discussed her book, Making Peace with Your Plate.
Topics: science, nutrition, eating, plate, groks
Source: Groks Science Radio Show and Podcast
The goods and foods that are produced and manufactured around us contain both natural and unnatural chemicals. How much is known about the chemistry of everyday goods? On this episode, George Zaidan discussed the chemistry of what we put on us and in us.
Topics: science, chemistry, food, products, groks
Source: Groks Science Radio Show and Podcast
Engineering is often regarded as the practical implementation of scientific theories. On this program, Prof. Henry Petroski discussed the essential engineer.
Topics: science, technology, engineering, groks
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
Swarm behavior is found throughout nature in ants, birds and even humans. But, what is a smart swarm and how can we learn from them? On this program, Peter Miller discussed the Smart Swarm with guest host, Dr. Elise Covic.
Topics: science, biology, population dynamics, chaos, sociology, groks
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
The remarkable world residing under the sea may have been unknown to many were it not for Jacques Cousteau. On this program, Brad Matsen discussed the life and work of the famed Sea King.
Topics: science, oceanography, conservation, SCUBA, cousteau, groks
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
Math may often seem daunting and unapproachable, even for professional mathematicians. Luckily, math can also be viewed as hot and sexy. On this program, Danica McKellar discussed hot math.
Topics: science, math, wonder years, groks
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
The universe is very large, which makes understanding its origins complicated. But, the fundamental principles are readily accessible with some creative assistance. On this program, James Lu Dunbar discussed the Universe Verse.
Topics: science, cosmology, physics, astronomy, groks
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
Empathy is an emotion that is often thought to be uniquely human. However, studies of non-human primates are changing that view. On this program, Prof. Frans de Waal discussed the age of empathy.
Topics: science, empathy, biology, sociology, groks
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
Severe anxiety can be a debilitating condition. Although medications are often the common form of treatment, other methods are available for achieving a more serene lifestyle. On this program, Steve Pavilanis discussed these methods for achieving a Life Less Anxious.
Topics: science, anxiety, panic attacks, serenity, groks
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
The human skull has fascinated those interested in the inner workings of the human mind, even to the point of stealing skulls from the grave. On this program, Colin Dickey discussed the practice of Cranioklepty.
Topics: science, grave robbing, craniokelpty, phrenology, Franz Joseph Gall, Haydn, Beethoven, Goya, groks
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
Is human language an innate characteristic of the human brain? Is there a universal grammar? Or, is language inherently tied to society and cultural forces? On this program Prof. Daniel Everett discussed linguistics, the Piraha, and religion in Don't Sleep There are Snakes.
Topics: science, linguistics, piraha, sociology, anthropology, groks
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
How does a biological system, like the brain, give rise to an emergent property, like the mind? Can quantum physics provide the answers? On this program, Prof. Werner R. Lowenstein discussed physics in mind.
Topics: science, mind, brain, quantum mechanics, physics, groks
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
What is the cause of the current epidemic obesity and can a starch diet be of benefit? On this program, Dr. John McDougall discussed the starch solution.
Topics: science, nutrition, diet, starch, groks
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
The threat of a global pandemic resulting from a disease crossing over from animals to humans has become more likely in today's hyperconnected world. On this episode, David Quammen discussed animal infections and the next human pandemic.
Topics: science, technology, disease control, pandemic, spillover, groks
Source: Groks Science Radio Show Podcast
